Schumacher retires, Massa safe for now

For the second time in his career, Michael Schumacher announced his retirement from Formula One. “I have decided to retire by the end of the year, although I am still able and capable to compete with the best drivers that are around,” the 43-years-old declared, reading from a statement.

“During the past month I was not sure if I still had the motivation, and energy which is necessary to go on,” he went on. “But at some point, it is good to say goodbye. And that is what I am doing here…“ With a wry smile he added: “And it might this time even be forever.”

In his final six appearances this year, Schumacher has still a slim chance to improve on his only podium in his last three seasons, the third place finish he scored this year in Valencia.

As to other options at his disposal, the seven-times world champion admited he has no longer the drive and motivation to go for it. “During the past month I was not sure if I still had the motivation, and energy which is necessary to go on,” he explained. “It is not my style to do something that I’m not 100 percent feeling for. With today’s decision I feel released from those doubts.

Unvariably Schumacher’s decision leaves Ferrari without a decent option to bridge the gap for the 2013 season and is now likely to confirm Felipe Massa alongside Fernando Alonso for a final season with the Scuderia